What is what to do when your transmission goes out?

Okay, here's information about what to do when your transmission goes out, formatted in markdown:

When your transmission goes out, it can be a stressful and costly experience. Here's a breakdown of what to do:

1. Safety First: If the transmission fails while you're driving, safely pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Your first priority is always your safety and the safety of others.

2. Assess the Situation: Try to determine what happened. Did you hear any unusual noises? Does the car move when you shift gears? A basic understanding of the problem can help you communicate with mechanics later.

3. Call for Help: You'll likely need a tow. Contact a towing service or roadside assistance provider. If you have auto insurance, check if it includes towing coverage. Make sure the tow truck driver takes your car to a reputable mechanic or repair shop.

4. Diagnosis: At the repair shop, a mechanic will diagnose the problem. This often involves a visual inspection and potentially some diagnostic tests. Be sure to get a written estimate before any work is done. Ask about the cost of the diagnosis and whether it will be applied to the repair if you choose to proceed.

5. Repair or Replacement: Once the diagnosis is complete, you'll have a few options:

   • Transmission Repair: If the damage is relatively minor, a repair might be possible. This could involve replacing specific parts of the transmission.
   • Transmission Replacement: If the transmission is severely damaged, a replacement may be necessary. You might have the option of a new, rebuilt, or used transmission. Each has pros and cons in terms of cost and reliability.
   • Consider the Car's Value: Is the cost of the repair or replacement worth it, considering the car's overall value? Sometimes, it might make more financial sense to sell the car or donate it.

6. Get a Second Opinion: Before committing to a major repair like a transmission replacement, it's always a good idea to get a second opinion from another mechanic. This can help you ensure you're getting an honest assessment and a fair price.

7. Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate the price of the repair or replacement. Get multiple quotes and compare them.

8. Warranty: Inquire about the warranty on the repair or replacement. A good warranty can provide peace of mind in case of future problems.

Here are some links that may be helpful:

• Understanding%20Transmission%20Failure
• Finding%20a%20Reputable%20Mechanic
• Towing%20Services
• New,%20Rebuilt,%20or%20Used%20Transmissions
• Negotiating%20Repair%20Costs